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ILOCOS SUR TOURIST SPOTS THAT SUITS FOR YOUR VACATION

There are lots of beautiful tourist spots in Ilocos Sur. Surely, Vigan will definitely one of spots you will surely attract your heart in one go.

TOP 5 TOURIST SPOTS IN ILOCOS SUR FOR YOUR NEXT VACATION TRIP

Whether it’s for the long vacation or just a quick breather from the hustle and bustle of city life, here are some of the most beautiful tourist spots in Ilocos Sur that certainly won’t disappoint.

1.CALLE CRISOLOGO – A preserved Spanish colonial town

As one of the best-preserved heritage sites in Vigan, Calle Crisologo boasts a unique atmosphere that would take you back in time. Heritage houses built centuries ago line up both sides of the street, depicting Spanish-influenced architecture preserved for several centuries. And with the site closed to vehicles, tourists can fully enjoy Calle Crisologo’s cobblestone street.

Many of the houses that line Calle Crisologo offer even more beyond their architectural marvels. Some have opened their houses to tourists who want to find out more about their stories, while others have been turned into retail stores that sell souvenirs and local delicacies. And of course, there are many locations around the street that’s perfect for a quick photo!

On top of its architectural and historical beauty, Calle Crisologo even has a dramatic love story behind it to add to its flair. A commonly told tale by local tour guides is that a Japanese general fell in love with a local Filipina, and this relationship was what spared Calle Crisologo, and the city of Vigan as a whole, from bombings during World War II. While it’s unknown what happened to the general and his lover, their love story continues to live on in Calle Crisologo’s towering structures!

Must-read: Calle Crisologo: Walking Through A Tale of War and Love

THERE IS NO ENTRANCE FEE HERE. IT’S FREE!

2. BALUARTE RESORT AND MINI ZOO – Perfect for kids who loves animals.

This hundred-hectare zoological park and resort complex is owned by the former Ilocos governor Luis “Chavit” Singson.

Dubbed as the Home of The Big Cats in Vigan, they take pride in their 8 Bengal Tigers, 6 White Lions, 2 Leopards, among other kinds of animals, even those that are endemic to the Philippines.

Animals like ostrich, spotted deer, and donkeys roam freely in an open area where visitors can interact with them closely. There are also cages housing other animals like camels, zebras, and reptiles.

The main attractions of Baluarte Zoo, of course, are the white lions, tigers, and leopards.

Tourists are allowed to get close to them and have a memorable moment captured in a photo. There’s no need to worry about getting bitten because these big cats are tamed by animal caretakers.

Live animal shows for tigers, lions, and reptiles are also scheduled four times daily.

Aside from the animals, another attraction inside Baluarte Zoo is the Safari Gallery, which features a wide display of Singson’s collection and memorabilia of his hobby as a hunter.

You’ll see a display of preserved wild animals Singson got from his hunting activities in foreign countries. If you are not a fan of animal hunting, you may choose not to enter the gallery.

By the end of your tour, strike a pose at the Baluarte signage while being surrounded by the towering dinosaur figures.

There is no entrance fee to wander at this amazing animal sanctuary. You can even have a family picnic on the green landscape or dine at Baluarte’s in-house cafeteria.

For those who want to tour around the zoo, a guided tour via electronic cab worth Php 50 is available.

3.  BANTAY CHURCH BELL TOWER / WATCHTOWER– A popular and historic Bantay Ilocos Sur tourist spot

Standing tall atop a small hill is the Bantay Bell Tower, a centuries-old church belfry that has become a favorite among tourists. Located in the municipality of Bantay right next to its local church, the Bantay Bell Tower previously served as a watchtower for the town and for the nearby capital city of Vigan during the Spanish colonial period, protecting both areas from pirates and other enemies.

The Bantay Bell Tower gives tourists a glimpse of Ilocos Sur’s colorful history, as the tower has stood firmly on top of the hill since 1591. Not only is the tower an architectural marvel, it’s also a lasting symbol of how the area has remained steadfast in the face of various threats.

As it was used as a watchtower several centuries ago, Bantay Bell Tower offers an unforgettable view of Ilocos Sur that you can’t miss. See the municipality of Bantay and the city of Vigan from a unique perspective, and snap a photo of the faraway mountains that complete the panoramic landscape.

After basking in the view, tourists can also visit the nearby Bantay Church, which now uses the tower as a belfry. Established a year before the tower in 1590, Bantay Church gives visitors the opportunity to unearth even more of Ilocos Sur’s history and culture.

From the Vigan city proper, the Bantay Bell Tower is only a 10-minute ride away. You will need to go up several sets of stairs for the full experience, but the view at the top is more than worth it!

4. SANGBAY NI RAGSAK FALLS – The Falls of Happiness

Ilocos Sur boasts more destinations that is still under the radar. The province is more than just the cobblestone streets of Vigan City since it has a good number of waterfalls and mountains worth exploring.

Sangbay ni Ragsak is an Ilocano phrase for Waterfall of Happiness. I must say that the height of this cascade is more impressive than in the photos. It resembles the Rook chess piece because of its seemingly castle tower shaped rock formation. Water flows at three sides of it and might be more powerful during the rainy days.

Swimming in here is a must try! The water level at its deepest is just around 6-7 feet and icy cold! Don’t worry, there are rest rooms around so you can change right after  quick dip. Locals and travelers alike spend their weekends here just relaxing and having their picnics.

Several huts and cottages line up the trail going down to the waterfall and can be rented at the registration area. There aren’t any stores around so might as well bring snacks and water with you to avoid inconvenience.

5. ILOCOS SUR ADVENTURE ZONE – An Ilocos Sur tourist spot that gives you a thrilling adventure

The recently opened adventure center is the newest attraction this side of the province. It caters mostly to adrenaline junkies and adventure freaks with its climbing and rappelling walls, kayak center, and of course, its 400-meter zip line.

Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone is about fifteen minutes away by car from Vigan City and is perfect for tourists wanting a bit more after visiting Calle Crisologo and Vigan’s numerous museums. For those without their own transportation, Sta. Maria-bound buses pass by the area, fare is at about PHP25.00. Just make sure to tell the driver to drop you off at the zip line if you’re not too familiar with the place.

So what are you waiting for, include it in your vacation trip now!

You don’t need so much money to enjoy your vacation. Ilocos Sur tourist spots doesn’t  costs you so much money. Mostly the tourist spots here are free.